2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.5 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
